How to Get Police Clearance or Certificate in the Philippines While Abroad? Obtaining legal documents like a police clearance or NBI (National Bureau of Investigation) clearance is essential for various reasons, such as employment, travel, immigration, or legal proceedings.
For Filipinos living or working abroad, getting these documents may seem challenging, but the process is quite manageable when approached step by step. Below is a detailed guide on how to obtain an NBI clearance from the Philippines while you’re abroad.
Getting an NBI Clearance While Overseas
If you’re residing abroad but need an NBI clearance, the good news is that you don’t need to travel back to the Philippines to apply for one. Instead, you can designate an authorized representative to handle the application on your behalf.
How to Get Police Clearance or Certificate in the Philippines While Abroad?
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand the process:
Step 1: Prepare the Required Documents
Before proceeding with the application, you need to gather the following:
- This form can be obtained from the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate.
- You will need to fill in your personal information and have your fingerprints taken by an authorized officer at the embassy or consulate. Ensure that the form is signed and stamped by the official.
Photocopy of Your Passport
Include a clear photocopy of the data page of your passport. This serves as proof of your identity.
Authorization Letter
Draft an authorization letter that designates a trusted person (a family member or friend) to process the NBI clearance on your behalf. Make sure this letter is signed and notarized, if necessary.
Two Passport-Sized Photos
Provide two recent passport-sized photos, which will be required for the application.
Application Fee
Depending on where you are, the processing fee may vary. Be sure to check with the Philippine Embassy or Consulate for updated fees.
Step 2: Send the Documents to Your Authorized Representative
Once you’ve completed the NBI Fingerprint Card and gathered all the necessary documents, mail them to your authorized representative in the Philippines. Ensure that the documents are securely packed to avoid damage during transit.
Step 3: Submission by Your Authorized Representative
Your representative will need to go to the Mailed Clearance Section of the NBI, which is located on the 3rd floor of the NBI Clearance Building, UN Avenue, Manila.
The following steps will be undertaken by your representative:
- Submit the fingerprint card (NBI Form No. 5) and other documents to the NBI office.
- Pay the necessary processing fee.
- Wait for the clearance to be processed. The timeline may vary depending on the workload at the NBI office.
Step 4: Receiving the NBI Clearance
Once the clearance has been processed, your representative can either:
- Claim the clearance in person and send it to you via a courier service of your choice, or
- Request the NBI to mail the clearance directly to your address abroad.
Important Considerations
- Processing Time: Processing times for NBI clearances may vary, especially if you have a namesake or if further verification is required.
- Validity: NBI clearances are typically valid for one year from the date of issue, so make sure to time your application accordingly.
- Mailing Costs: If the clearance will be sent to you abroad, ensure that all necessary mailing fees are covered to avoid delays in receiving your document.
Conclusion
Obtaining an NBI clearance from the Philippines while abroad is a straightforward process if you follow the necessary steps and have a trusted representative to act on your behalf. By preparing all the required documents and coordinating with the NBI and your representative, you can secure your clearance efficiently without the need to travel back to the Philippines.
